Satellites that keep Britain’s economy running and its defences connected are set to receive new protection under a government-backed project to detect and counter laser attacks in orbit. The announcement follows growing concerns over interference with UK military satellites, including reports of suspected Russian activity.
The initiative, revealed by the Ministry of Defence and UK Space Agency, focuses on creating cutting-edge sensors capable of spotting and analysing lasers that could be used by hostile nations to disrupt satellite operations. These sensors will provide early warnings of potential threats, allowing the UK Armed Forces to act swiftly to safeguard essential systems.
Protecting an Economy Built on Space
Around one-fifth of the UK’s economy depends on satellite technology, which underpins daily activities such as money transfers, weather forecasting and emergency response. The new technology aims to safeguard that infrastructure and strengthen national security as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, said: “Space is a hugely important and contested frontline and satellites play a vital role in UK prosperity and security.” He added that protecting these assets “supports our national security, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change.”
Backed by New Defence Investment
The project is being led by the UK Space Command in partnership with the UK Space Agency and funded with an initial £500,000 through the Unlocking Space for Government programme. The scheme is designed to harness space innovation to enhance public services and strengthen the nation’s resilience.
The move follows the Strategic Defence Review, which placed space on equal footing with traditional military domains and emphasised its growing importance in national defence and economic stability.
Major General Paul Tedman, Commander of UK Space Command, said the investment comes at a critical moment: “In this new era of threats, UK Space Command is competing against a growing arsenal of adversary counterspace systems and requires new and innovative edge technology to protect and defend our satellites.”
Innovation to Strengthen National Resilience
The new sensors will be able to detect lasers originating from Earth or orbit, giving the UK Armed Forces the ability to identify and counter interference before it causes damage or data loss.
Harshbir Sangha, Director of Missions and Capabilities at the UK Space Agency, described the development as “an important step in developing the tools we need to detect and respond to emerging threats in space.”
Space Sector Powers Economic Growth
The investment also highlights the Government’s ambition to use defence spending as a driver of growth. The aerospace and defence industries contributed more than £42 billion to the UK economy last year, up 64% over the past decade, and now employ over 440,000 people nationwide.
By fortifying the nation’s satellites, the UK aims not only to secure its critical space assets but also to maintain its position as a global leader in space innovation and defence technology.
